The first three chapters from Writing Arguments discuss what they define as an argument, reading arguments, and writing arguments. This text has been very useful in understanding what an argument is intended to be. My first thoughts of an argument conjured up images of heated debates with both sides presenting their pros and cons on a subject. After reading the first chapter I gained a new concept of what an argument can be. The text defines it as, “A creative and productive activity that engages us at high levels of inquiry and critical thinking, often in conversation with persons we like and respect” (Ramage, Bean, Johnson 4). I was especially intrigued by the Socrates’ disagreement with the Sophists. Socrates was more interested in truth seeking thru argument, while the Sophists focused on winning an argument. Like the author’s of the text, I find myself leaning towards Socrates approach to argument by finding truth in philosophic inquiry (Ramage, Bean, Johnson 13). The second chapter centers on strategies when reading an argument. I have never considered reading an argument with different mindsets. I particularly appreciated the strategy of first reading as a believer and then a doubter. When you read as a believer you are being empathetic and when you read as a doubter you can “question what is not in the argument” (Ramage, Bean, Johnson 32). Chapter 3 has some great tips to improve the writing method. I plan on using idea mapping to help produce better and clearer thoughts when writing. I also believe that using the structure of classical argument will help me to develop a better plan for my writing. As the text also points out using the structure of classical argument may not always be the most effective way to plan a paper (Ramage, Bean, Johnson 67). A really great suggestion that I found in the text was to “research an issue about which you are initially undecided” (Ramage, Bean, Johnson 72). This text has definitely given me some suggestions and tips that I will be using when writing arguments.
Works Cited
Ramage, J., J. Bean, and J. Johnson. Writing Arguments A Rhetoric with Readings. 7th ed. United States: Pearson Education, Inc., 2007. 71-3. Print.
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Shannon, this is an excellent first post! Your writing is clear and engaging. I get a strong sense of your appreciation of the text. I had to laugh reading your initial impression that arguments=heated debates. I've actually had students tell me they were afraid of this class because they didn't enjoy conflict! I'm glad you are finding the text both helpful and accessible. When I read conference papers and journal submissions for colleagues as a peer reader, I take the role of the doubter. Do you think you can be BOTH a doubting and an empathetic reader? . . .I'm looking forward to your next post!
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